James E. “Jim” Mickelson, age 68, of Merrill, died Friday, Sept. 20, at Colonial Manor in Wausau.
Jim was born Oct. 10, 1944 in Merrill, the son of Palmer and Ruth (Thompson) Mickelson. He was educated locally at Merrill High School later he attended college at the University of Wisconsin in Madison and Black Hills State University in Spearfish, SD. Jim served with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Jim worked at Weinbrenner Shoe Company as a systems and programming manager for several years. His father Palmer Mickelson was a football coach and athletic director at Merrill High School for many years. Each year the Mickelson outstanding athlete award is given in honor of Jim’s father. The award is based upon sportsmanship, scholarship and participation. He enjoyed following the Green Bay Packers, he was also a shareholder. Jim enjoyed hunting at the Cree Jan hunting shack in the Newood area for many seasons. He had a wonderful sense of humor which he freely shared with everyone he met.
Survivors include: three cousins, Craig, Cindy and Candace Neddersen and close friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. Donations may be directed to the Friends of the Evjue School Forest of Merrill, Inc.
Memorial Liturgy will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday at Waid Funeral Home. The Rev. Fr. Joe Kleinheinz will officiate. Visitation will be from 12 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home .
The Waid Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.